Up 1st Arete/Down NE Ridge
3.16 miles/2,423 vert./1:04:43 (42:17 up)/avg. HR 151 Garmin Data
Great hike/run today, how could it not be when it is 67 degrees? Even busted out the shorts for the first time in months which felt really great. The price of the warmth though is really messy snow, making for some poor footing and slow going at times, as there was just really no traction much of the way, even with Microspikes, it was so loose and slushy. Certainly no crowds on this route, just passed one hiker near the summit and saw a few people near Amphitheater. Love it.
Sierra
Sierra
Monday, March 5, 2012
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Sunday, 03/04/12 Sanitas x 2
Up/Down S. Ridge
4.76 miles/2,517 vert./1:03:12/avg. HR 162 Garmin Data
Splits: 18:41/12:18/20:04/12:08
I skipped running yesterday, not because I felt as though I needed a day off, but because the wind was just too chaffing and annoying. If I had the opportunity, I would have gladly gone for a run in the hills, but the prospect of pushing the double Chariot in that stuff was not appealing at all. I did waffle all day though between gusts, "OK, it seems to be calming, I'll suit up and see what happens". By the time I could think those thoughts though, the wind would gust again and I would come to my senses and realize that it would be no biggie to skip the run entirely. I was just not at all into it.
So, with it being 65 today, I had to get outside, wind or no wind.
As I was driving to the Gregory lot after work for a lap on Green, I made a spur of the moment decision to head over to Sanitas, as I was lured by the sunshine, warmth and dry trails that I would find there.
I felt pretty sluggish and my legs had little to no snap, but put in an effort on the high side of moderate with a few surges on the low side of hard on my two ascents and just coasted the downhills for the most part. I was also a bit over dressed, having planned on going over to Green and really wished that I had that clean pair of shorts I had been carrying around in my bag all Winter (and just removed last week, thinking I would not need them for a while).
It was really cool to run on dry trails and I realized that have almost forgotten how to run technical rocky, log steppy trail. I also was reminded why I like Green much better, the lack of crowds, especially the Biffs and Buffys out there. Caught up to one Biff fairly quickly and did the requisite throat clearing combined with a foot scuff or two. With no reaction, I then said "on your left", nothing. Noticing that he had ear buds, I figured he was rocking out and had no idea I was there, so I tried to sneak past on his left and ended up bouncing into him no less than 3 times in doing so.
I have no problem with earphones, I use them every once in a while on the trails if I am in the mood (maybe 5% of the time) and always on urban/flat runs, but I keep them turned waaaay down so I can still hear what is going on around me, or just keep one in my ear. I secretly get a big kick out of scaring the crap out of those who are so self absorbed in their own little world and oblivious to those around them. I often times cause people to about jump out of their skin (after a fair warning of course), even though efforts to be considerate almost always end up with the same result.
4.76 miles/2,517 vert./1:03:12/avg. HR 162 Garmin Data
Splits: 18:41/12:18/20:04/12:08
I skipped running yesterday, not because I felt as though I needed a day off, but because the wind was just too chaffing and annoying. If I had the opportunity, I would have gladly gone for a run in the hills, but the prospect of pushing the double Chariot in that stuff was not appealing at all. I did waffle all day though between gusts, "OK, it seems to be calming, I'll suit up and see what happens". By the time I could think those thoughts though, the wind would gust again and I would come to my senses and realize that it would be no biggie to skip the run entirely. I was just not at all into it.
So, with it being 65 today, I had to get outside, wind or no wind.
As I was driving to the Gregory lot after work for a lap on Green, I made a spur of the moment decision to head over to Sanitas, as I was lured by the sunshine, warmth and dry trails that I would find there.
I felt pretty sluggish and my legs had little to no snap, but put in an effort on the high side of moderate with a few surges on the low side of hard on my two ascents and just coasted the downhills for the most part. I was also a bit over dressed, having planned on going over to Green and really wished that I had that clean pair of shorts I had been carrying around in my bag all Winter (and just removed last week, thinking I would not need them for a while).
It was really cool to run on dry trails and I realized that have almost forgotten how to run technical rocky, log steppy trail. I also was reminded why I like Green much better, the lack of crowds, especially the Biffs and Buffys out there. Caught up to one Biff fairly quickly and did the requisite throat clearing combined with a foot scuff or two. With no reaction, I then said "on your left", nothing. Noticing that he had ear buds, I figured he was rocking out and had no idea I was there, so I tried to sneak past on his left and ended up bouncing into him no less than 3 times in doing so.
I have no problem with earphones, I use them every once in a while on the trails if I am in the mood (maybe 5% of the time) and always on urban/flat runs, but I keep them turned waaaay down so I can still hear what is going on around me, or just keep one in my ear. I secretly get a big kick out of scaring the crap out of those who are so self absorbed in their own little world and oblivious to those around them. I often times cause people to about jump out of their skin (after a fair warning of course), even though efforts to be considerate almost always end up with the same result.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Friday, 03/02/12 Green Mountain x 2
Up/Down Front
8.32 miles/4,575 vert./3:25 (or so)/avg. HR 112 Garmin Data
Woke up on Friday morning and got an e-mail from Homie who announced that he would be running 10 laps on Green to celebrate his birthday, that is 41 miles and ~24,000 vertical feet of climbing and descending, much of it on a trail that is solid ice.
With Allison's on call work schedule, I was not sure if I would be able to join for any laps, but was hoping for the best, keeping tabs and was at the ready all day, just in case. Finally was able to get out the door late afternoon and join for laps 9 and 10. Homie and GZ finished lap 8 a bit after 5pm, where Bill W, Kendrick and I were ready and waiting to join. I was impressed with Homie's strength and resolve after being out there since 5am and aside from mentioning some blisters and that he had not been eating as well as he should have, did not complain one bit (as I might have been, and even did a bit after just 2 laps).
On the descent from lap 9, as we neared the Saddle/Amphi jct., we spotted some eyes down the hill, very close to where the Amphi trail doubles back. We stopped and shined our lights and whatever it was, had some wide set eyes, was low to the ground and then got out of there fast and quiet after it closely checked us out. I was 95% sure it was a lion, but we will never know for sure. Either way, it definitely heightened our senses and we were a bit charged up and on guard for a bit.
Lap 10, a bit after 7pm and it was just Homie, Kendrick and I for the final push, but Dave called and said that he was on his way and would catch up. We expected to have him catch us for much of the climb, but finally connected with us on the final switchbacks below the summit. This, combined with being so close to the top gave Homie a strong surge of adrenaline and he put in a good sprint to put quite the exclamation point on an amazing day.
We took a few pictures on top, exchanged high fives and said our congrats, then Homie was out of there like a rocket. I could barely keep up with him, as he was just ready to get the descent over with, eat and relax. Finished at 9:09pm (I think) for what was for him a 16 hour and 8 minute day. I was quite impressed with his accomplishment (though not at all surprised) and was more than honored to treat him to dinner at Illigal Pete's. Congrats to Homie and happy 41st!
Dave Mackey, Homie, Kendrick
Dave, Homie and me (holding up a proud two fingers for my skimpy 2 laps). Note the Microspikes on Dave's feet that Homie loaned him, I think he might be converted.
8.32 miles/4,575 vert./3:25 (or so)/avg. HR 112 Garmin Data
Woke up on Friday morning and got an e-mail from Homie who announced that he would be running 10 laps on Green to celebrate his birthday, that is 41 miles and ~24,000 vertical feet of climbing and descending, much of it on a trail that is solid ice.
With Allison's on call work schedule, I was not sure if I would be able to join for any laps, but was hoping for the best, keeping tabs and was at the ready all day, just in case. Finally was able to get out the door late afternoon and join for laps 9 and 10. Homie and GZ finished lap 8 a bit after 5pm, where Bill W, Kendrick and I were ready and waiting to join. I was impressed with Homie's strength and resolve after being out there since 5am and aside from mentioning some blisters and that he had not been eating as well as he should have, did not complain one bit (as I might have been, and even did a bit after just 2 laps).
On the descent from lap 9, as we neared the Saddle/Amphi jct., we spotted some eyes down the hill, very close to where the Amphi trail doubles back. We stopped and shined our lights and whatever it was, had some wide set eyes, was low to the ground and then got out of there fast and quiet after it closely checked us out. I was 95% sure it was a lion, but we will never know for sure. Either way, it definitely heightened our senses and we were a bit charged up and on guard for a bit.
Lap 10, a bit after 7pm and it was just Homie, Kendrick and I for the final push, but Dave called and said that he was on his way and would catch up. We expected to have him catch us for much of the climb, but finally connected with us on the final switchbacks below the summit. This, combined with being so close to the top gave Homie a strong surge of adrenaline and he put in a good sprint to put quite the exclamation point on an amazing day.
We took a few pictures on top, exchanged high fives and said our congrats, then Homie was out of there like a rocket. I could barely keep up with him, as he was just ready to get the descent over with, eat and relax. Finished at 9:09pm (I think) for what was for him a 16 hour and 8 minute day. I was quite impressed with his accomplishment (though not at all surprised) and was more than honored to treat him to dinner at Illigal Pete's. Congrats to Homie and happy 41st!
Dave Mackey, Homie, Kendrick
Dave, Homie and me (holding up a proud two fingers for my skimpy 2 laps). Note the Microspikes on Dave's feet that Homie loaned him, I think he might be converted.
Oh yeah, almost forgot, got in a easy run with the jogger earlier in the day with the twins.
4.27 miles/220 vert./37:22/8:45 pace/avg. HR 126
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thursday, 03/01/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
8.19 miles/284 vert./1:04:48/7:55 pace/avg. HR 145
Eager to explore a new route I mapped through Lafayette, I was all dressed and ready to go. Chariot positioned for easy loading, baby jackets, hats, mittens piled at the ready, sippy cups filled and GPS watch outside acquiring satellites. I knew I had limited time with snow in the forecast after noon, so I was eager for the girls to awake from their nap so we could get the show on the road. Amelie awoke at 10:45, so we changed her diaper and get her ready while Isabelle slept through the commotion. Amelie and I went out for a weather check and I was discouraged to find that it was snowing hard and seemed as though it would only get worse.
We went inside and I begrudgingly changed out of cold running uniform and back into civilian clothes, figuring the day would revolve around playing inside. Isabelle finally awoke a half hour later and I noticed that it had stopped snowing and things were seeming a little brighter, so I quickly got changed, again, and got everyone loaded and ready to roll.
Open the garage, it is dark and snowing again. Seriously? Oh well, the girls were warm and fully enclosed, so it was just me who would get damp. Once we got rolling, the snow let up, but it was a bit breezy and we passed through the occasional squall, requiring almost constant adjusting of my hat/hood/zippers and fogged sunglasses.
Turned out to be a decent run all things considered and I was glad I got out. It was even funnier that when I got home and took the dog for a mile walk, it got really nice, warm and sunny. That is Winter in Colorado I guess.
"Seems fine to me dad, what's the fuss?"
Eager to explore a new route I mapped through Lafayette, I was all dressed and ready to go. Chariot positioned for easy loading, baby jackets, hats, mittens piled at the ready, sippy cups filled and GPS watch outside acquiring satellites. I knew I had limited time with snow in the forecast after noon, so I was eager for the girls to awake from their nap so we could get the show on the road. Amelie awoke at 10:45, so we changed her diaper and get her ready while Isabelle slept through the commotion. Amelie and I went out for a weather check and I was discouraged to find that it was snowing hard and seemed as though it would only get worse.
We went inside and I begrudgingly changed out of cold running uniform and back into civilian clothes, figuring the day would revolve around playing inside. Isabelle finally awoke a half hour later and I noticed that it had stopped snowing and things were seeming a little brighter, so I quickly got changed, again, and got everyone loaded and ready to roll.
Open the garage, it is dark and snowing again. Seriously? Oh well, the girls were warm and fully enclosed, so it was just me who would get damp. Once we got rolling, the snow let up, but it was a bit breezy and we passed through the occasional squall, requiring almost constant adjusting of my hat/hood/zippers and fogged sunglasses.
Turned out to be a decent run all things considered and I was glad I got out. It was even funnier that when I got home and took the dog for a mile walk, it got really nice, warm and sunny. That is Winter in Colorado I guess.
"Seems fine to me dad, what's the fuss?"
Wednesday, 02/29/12 Green Mountain
Up 1st Arete/Down 1st Saddle
3.02 miles/2,405 vert./1:08:25 (42:58 up)/avg. HR 149 Garmin Data
Had a fun afternoon jaunt up Green with Tony. He introduced me to a new route variation along the 1st Arete and then along the side of the 1st Flatiron, then connecting with the "normal" 1st saddle route. Interesting route that was a bit loose, technical and bushwhacky at times, but was a lot of fun, just the type of route I often times enjoy and even prefer. Variable snow conditions, or lack thereof had me removing/installing the Microspikes very often (somewhat new spikes that I am trying to keep sharp). Spent some time taking pictures in various spots for Tony's sponsors near the top. I think I got some good ones.
We also got the girls each a pair of their own Nike running shoes. Figured I would get a few silly shots of them in contrast to our Hoka shoes.
3.02 miles/2,405 vert./1:08:25 (42:58 up)/avg. HR 149 Garmin Data
Had a fun afternoon jaunt up Green with Tony. He introduced me to a new route variation along the 1st Arete and then along the side of the 1st Flatiron, then connecting with the "normal" 1st saddle route. Interesting route that was a bit loose, technical and bushwhacky at times, but was a lot of fun, just the type of route I often times enjoy and even prefer. Variable snow conditions, or lack thereof had me removing/installing the Microspikes very often (somewhat new spikes that I am trying to keep sharp). Spent some time taking pictures in various spots for Tony's sponsors near the top. I think I got some good ones.
We also got the girls each a pair of their own Nike running shoes. Figured I would get a few silly shots of them in contrast to our Hoka shoes.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Tuesday, 02/28/12 LoBo Run
8 miles/58:43/142 vert./7:20 pace/avg. HR 148 Garmin Data
Eager to run before the predicted 70-80 mph winds (that have still yet to materialize), I got out mid-morning for a flat run from work. Headed toward Niwot on the LoBo Trail, cut left off of 83rd onto Niwot Meadows Farm Rd. and then picked up a new (but still "closed") dirt path that generally headed East. Was running somewhat mellow and getting near my turnaround time (had to get back to a meeting) and was hoping the new trail went all the way through to 95th so I could make a loop. The trail finally ended and I would have had to add distance by going S. to Niwot Rd. through the high school grounds, or trespass a direct line across a farm (still tempting). Decided to play it on the safe side and just backtrack, so I picked up the effort a bit to be sure I had enough time to shower and re-group. Still was a fairly moderate run.
Eager to run before the predicted 70-80 mph winds (that have still yet to materialize), I got out mid-morning for a flat run from work. Headed toward Niwot on the LoBo Trail, cut left off of 83rd onto Niwot Meadows Farm Rd. and then picked up a new (but still "closed") dirt path that generally headed East. Was running somewhat mellow and getting near my turnaround time (had to get back to a meeting) and was hoping the new trail went all the way through to 95th so I could make a loop. The trail finally ended and I would have had to add distance by going S. to Niwot Rd. through the high school grounds, or trespass a direct line across a farm (still tempting). Decided to play it on the safe side and just backtrack, so I picked up the effort a bit to be sure I had enough time to shower and re-group. Still was a fairly moderate run.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Sunday, 02/26/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down Front
4.08 miles/2,276 vert./56:26 (36:34 up) Garmin Data
Bumped into Homie at the Gregory lot after he had finished his 2 laps for the day. I was debating the old/dull spikes, but he encouraged me to use the newer/sharper pair and I was very glad I did. The lower 1/3 of the mountain is solid ice and I was appreciating the great grip, as anything less would have made the going very slow. The upper 2/3 to 1/2 was pretty decent packed trail with only a few short sections of awkward sidehilling. Kept the effort at a reasonably moderate level and did not push at all.
On the descent, I just coasted and was making decent time on the upper half (I think), but really dialed it back on the lower section, as even with the sharp spikes, I took a good slip while being careful (I pulled out of it without hitting the deck, but it was a good wake up call). Passed a couple picking their way down with no traction on their shoes and felt really bad for them. Hope they made it out unscathed.
4.08 miles/2,276 vert./56:26 (36:34 up) Garmin Data
Bumped into Homie at the Gregory lot after he had finished his 2 laps for the day. I was debating the old/dull spikes, but he encouraged me to use the newer/sharper pair and I was very glad I did. The lower 1/3 of the mountain is solid ice and I was appreciating the great grip, as anything less would have made the going very slow. The upper 2/3 to 1/2 was pretty decent packed trail with only a few short sections of awkward sidehilling. Kept the effort at a reasonably moderate level and did not push at all.
On the descent, I just coasted and was making decent time on the upper half (I think), but really dialed it back on the lower section, as even with the sharp spikes, I took a good slip while being careful (I pulled out of it without hitting the deck, but it was a good wake up call). Passed a couple picking their way down with no traction on their shoes and felt really bad for them. Hope they made it out unscathed.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Saturday, 02/25/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
8.27 miles/257 vert./1:09:11/8:22 pace/avg. HR 136
Perfect day for a casual run with the girls in the jogger, as it was around 60 degrees and calm, so we headed over to Harper Lake and Davidson Mesa in search of geese and horses. Only saw 4 geese, but the horses were outside and being social, so that was a big hit, despite all the slow going in the mud to get in and out of there. Hoping those trails will dry out soon.
Perfect day for a casual run with the girls in the jogger, as it was around 60 degrees and calm, so we headed over to Harper Lake and Davidson Mesa in search of geese and horses. Only saw 4 geese, but the horses were outside and being social, so that was a big hit, despite all the slow going in the mud to get in and out of there. Hoping those trails will dry out soon.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Friday, 02/24/12 Green Mountain
From Chautauqua
Up Front/Down W. Ridge/Long and Gregory Canyons
7.21 miles/2,630 vert./1:33:54/avg. HR 161 Garmin Data
Met up with Dave and David Riddle at Chautauqua for a lap on Green. David was visiting town from Ohio with his wife and wanted to get in a little trail running before they headed up to Summit County for a weekend of skiing, so he had contacted Dave for a Tour. Headed up Amphitheater/Saddle Rock/Greenman at somewhat of a conversational pace (they were conversing while I listened). Conditions were a bit better than Wednesday, but it was windy again and there was plenty of freshly drifted snow to slip around in.
We spent a while on the summit, pointing out the neighboring summits (those that were not obscured by clouds) and just chatting for a bit.
Headed down West Ridge to the top of SuperFlag, which was rough in spots and included a good bit of post holing. Long Canyon was in better condition, sheltered from the wind and even packed by somebody with snowshoes.
Great day out, a little cold and breezy at times, but seemed calm compared to Wednesday.
Splits:
Chau to Greg: 5:59
A/S/G: 41:20
Down WR/Long/Greg: 41:44 (longer than our ascent!)
Greg to Chau: 4:49
I got a kick out of this rather large and heavy (50lb) trophy sitting out front of Dave's apartment. He has so many, he uses them to decorate outside even. This one was used to prevent his patio from flying away during the recent wind storm.
Dave, David
Dave, David, me
We stopped and built an awesome snowman on the way down while we waited on Dave
Up Front/Down W. Ridge/Long and Gregory Canyons
7.21 miles/2,630 vert./1:33:54/avg. HR 161 Garmin Data
Met up with Dave and David Riddle at Chautauqua for a lap on Green. David was visiting town from Ohio with his wife and wanted to get in a little trail running before they headed up to Summit County for a weekend of skiing, so he had contacted Dave for a Tour. Headed up Amphitheater/Saddle Rock/Greenman at somewhat of a conversational pace (they were conversing while I listened). Conditions were a bit better than Wednesday, but it was windy again and there was plenty of freshly drifted snow to slip around in.
We spent a while on the summit, pointing out the neighboring summits (those that were not obscured by clouds) and just chatting for a bit.
Headed down West Ridge to the top of SuperFlag, which was rough in spots and included a good bit of post holing. Long Canyon was in better condition, sheltered from the wind and even packed by somebody with snowshoes.
Great day out, a little cold and breezy at times, but seemed calm compared to Wednesday.
Splits:
Chau to Greg: 5:59
A/S/G: 41:20
Down WR/Long/Greg: 41:44 (longer than our ascent!)
Greg to Chau: 4:49
I got a kick out of this rather large and heavy (50lb) trophy sitting out front of Dave's apartment. He has so many, he uses them to decorate outside even. This one was used to prevent his patio from flying away during the recent wind storm.
Traversing the drifted, off camber section of trail above the Greenman/Saddle jct.
Dave, David
Dave, David, me
We stopped and built an awesome snowman on the way down while we waited on Dave
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Thursday, 02/23/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
8.2 miles/313 vert./1:02:13/7:35 pace/avg. HR 153
Was waiting all day for it to get nice, but it never really did aside from a few fleeting glimpses of sunshine. Finally (and now reluctantly) got out the door at 3:54pm and it was cold and breezy, but figured since we were all suited up and ready to roll, we would get in at least a few miles. Once I got running though, I felt good and was immediately into it (having a mp3 loaded with good podcasts helped tremendously).
The first mile was the most vert. of the run (132 ft.), so was a bit slow, but the miles seemed to click by smoothly after that. Headed toward the rec. center, followed the powerlines to Dillon and then took a chance heading over to the Coal Creek Trail, hoping that it would not be too snowy or muddy. There was some mud and a little fresh snow, but it was just a little slow and messy, but definitely tolerable. Just before crossing the creek by the golf course, there was a huge tree across the trail and there was absolutely no way around it. I was 5 miles in at this point and the prospect of backtracking around the golf course was not appealing, as we were nearing baby dinner time.
I considered a few unlikely options, then it dawned on me that if there were no fences, I could backtrack to the golf course and cut across. Sure enough, it was wide open and I did a bit of cross country through the snow and across the course to eventually get back on track.
Overall a pretty good moderate run. Slowest mile was 8:38, fastest was 6:32 at 152 HR.
Was waiting all day for it to get nice, but it never really did aside from a few fleeting glimpses of sunshine. Finally (and now reluctantly) got out the door at 3:54pm and it was cold and breezy, but figured since we were all suited up and ready to roll, we would get in at least a few miles. Once I got running though, I felt good and was immediately into it (having a mp3 loaded with good podcasts helped tremendously).
The first mile was the most vert. of the run (132 ft.), so was a bit slow, but the miles seemed to click by smoothly after that. Headed toward the rec. center, followed the powerlines to Dillon and then took a chance heading over to the Coal Creek Trail, hoping that it would not be too snowy or muddy. There was some mud and a little fresh snow, but it was just a little slow and messy, but definitely tolerable. Just before crossing the creek by the golf course, there was a huge tree across the trail and there was absolutely no way around it. I was 5 miles in at this point and the prospect of backtracking around the golf course was not appealing, as we were nearing baby dinner time.
I considered a few unlikely options, then it dawned on me that if there were no fences, I could backtrack to the golf course and cut across. Sure enough, it was wide open and I did a bit of cross country through the snow and across the course to eventually get back on track.
Overall a pretty good moderate run. Slowest mile was 8:38, fastest was 6:32 at 152 HR.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Wednesday, 02/22/12 Windy Day on Green
Up 1st saddle/Down G/S/A
3.56 miles/2,273 vert./1:09:10 RT (45:12 up)/avg. HR 152 Garmin Data
Windy is an understatement, hurricane is more like it. Picked up Dave at his place and headed to the Gregory TH for a balmy, yet breezy jaunt up Green. The snow conditions were pretty miserable, deep slush where the trail should be packed, or soft, deep, drifted wet snow where the wind has all but obliterated what was once a nice packed trench.
Went pretty casual on the up and down, stopping often to hit the deck to avoid being knocked to the ground by the wind and occasionally needed to cling to a rock or tree for good measure. This was definitely one of the most, if not THE most windy conditions I have been in on the local peaks (but not nearly as bad as a few occasions in the high mountains). Gusts at NCAR were recorded at 88mph, but it might have been a bit more than that high on Green.
Despite the less than ideal conditions, it was great to get out with Dave again and we had a really fun time.
Oh, and while finishing up, we noticed a tree had fallen across the Amphitheater Trail while we were on the mountain (a small one though).
3.56 miles/2,273 vert./1:09:10 RT (45:12 up)/avg. HR 152 Garmin Data
Windy is an understatement, hurricane is more like it. Picked up Dave at his place and headed to the Gregory TH for a balmy, yet breezy jaunt up Green. The snow conditions were pretty miserable, deep slush where the trail should be packed, or soft, deep, drifted wet snow where the wind has all but obliterated what was once a nice packed trench.
Went pretty casual on the up and down, stopping often to hit the deck to avoid being knocked to the ground by the wind and occasionally needed to cling to a rock or tree for good measure. This was definitely one of the most, if not THE most windy conditions I have been in on the local peaks (but not nearly as bad as a few occasions in the high mountains). Gusts at NCAR were recorded at 88mph, but it might have been a bit more than that high on Green.
Despite the less than ideal conditions, it was great to get out with Dave again and we had a really fun time.
Oh, and while finishing up, we noticed a tree had fallen across the Amphitheater Trail while we were on the mountain (a small one though).
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Tuesday, 02/21/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down front
3.89 miles/2,285 vert./1:01:22 (41:11 up)/avg HR 158 Garmin Data
The wind has raised a bit of havoc on the trails, drifting the snow in spots to the point where there may as well have not been a trail underneath and it was often at a sidehill angle that involved some significant slipping and sliding. Either way though, it was a lot of fun out there today and managed to sneak up/down during a relative lull in the wind. Went what felt to be a moderately moderate effort, easy cruising on the packed trail, a bit more work in the drifted sections when breaking trail. Went a mellow pace on the down and some sections seemed to be as much work as on the ascent.
3.89 miles/2,285 vert./1:01:22 (41:11 up)/avg HR 158 Garmin Data
The wind has raised a bit of havoc on the trails, drifting the snow in spots to the point where there may as well have not been a trail underneath and it was often at a sidehill angle that involved some significant slipping and sliding. Either way though, it was a lot of fun out there today and managed to sneak up/down during a relative lull in the wind. Went what felt to be a moderately moderate effort, easy cruising on the packed trail, a bit more work in the drifted sections when breaking trail. Went a mellow pace on the down and some sections seemed to be as much work as on the ascent.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Sunday, 02/19/12 Green Mountain
4.04 miles/2,281 vert./56:29 RT (37:39 up/18:49 down)/avg. HR 157 Garmin Data
I waffled all day about getting outside for a run, as this on-going sickness thing keeps dragging along. Though I feel a bit better, my nose and lungs/throat still are not quite right and energy levels/enthusiasm to exercise are a bit lower than normal. I think some of it has to do with waking up often in the middle of the night coughing and I am a bit tired from lack of sleep.
Still, it was a reasonably nice day and I felt like it could not hurt to head over to Green for a little fresh air to snap me out of my malaise (staring at my computer screen all day was also giving me a headache and making me a bit stir crazy).
Leaving work and enjoying the light of day helped a bit and then once I hit the trail, I felt much better immediately. Still though, I kept the effort on what felt like the low side of moderate, hiking about 50% of the climb and easy jogging the remainder. I was happy to not have a wheezing fit on the summit, like on Weds/Thurs, just some minor discomfort.
Took it super easy on the down.
I waffled all day about getting outside for a run, as this on-going sickness thing keeps dragging along. Though I feel a bit better, my nose and lungs/throat still are not quite right and energy levels/enthusiasm to exercise are a bit lower than normal. I think some of it has to do with waking up often in the middle of the night coughing and I am a bit tired from lack of sleep.
Still, it was a reasonably nice day and I felt like it could not hurt to head over to Green for a little fresh air to snap me out of my malaise (staring at my computer screen all day was also giving me a headache and making me a bit stir crazy).
Leaving work and enjoying the light of day helped a bit and then once I hit the trail, I felt much better immediately. Still though, I kept the effort on what felt like the low side of moderate, hiking about 50% of the climb and easy jogging the remainder. I was happy to not have a wheezing fit on the summit, like on Weds/Thurs, just some minor discomfort.
Took it super easy on the down.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Saturday, 02/18/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
3.51 miles/132 vert./30:33/8:42 pace/avg. HR 126
Another very easy jog with the girls with a stop at Walgreens to re-up on cold medicine (still lingering).
Another very easy jog with the girls with a stop at Walgreens to re-up on cold medicine (still lingering).
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